Consumer options for animal proteins stretch beyond the typical red and white meat. Seafood, whether it be fish, crustaceans or mollusks, have a wide audience as well. While the seafood industry has its challenges that are unique to the animal protein industry – shelf life being a notable example – consumer trends tend to overlap across all types of proteins. The same demands that are affecting the pork, beef or chicken sectors have an impact for seafood as well.
As an example, the need for convenience has spurred growth in meat snacks, which has seen amazing growth not only in sales but also in brand names. Until recently, consumers haven’t had a chance to equate “seafood” and “convenience,” but that is changing. Earlier this year, SeaPak Shrimp & Seafood Co. introduced an On-the-Go Shrimp Cocktail package that is a frozen, thaw-and-go product.